Conservation Agent Meredith LaBelle, Environmental Specialist Leonel Lainez. and Commissioners hosted an educational seminar about best management practices for working near wetlands on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the Public Safety Building, bringing together residents, homeowners, and contractors. The event attracted an impressive turnout, highlighting the community's commitment to environmental awareness and getting familiar with the Town’s wetlands bylaws regulations.

The training covered a wide range of topics essential for the community's environmental stewardship. Participants learned how to recognize wetlands and understand their critical role in the ecosystem. The session also introduced the town’s Geographic Informational Services (GIS) tools, which are publicly available for project scoping and identifying wetlands in the area. Attendees were guided through the distinct types of wetlands permits and how to submit permit applications online using OpenGov, the Town’s online permitting platform.

 The session highlighted the importance of erosion and sedimentation controls to prevent sedimentation in our waterways. Emphasis was placed on using clean materials to prevent the spread of invasive plants, such as Japanese knotweed and Mile-a-Minute. Specific regulations unique to Dedham, such as the Undisturbed Buffer Area, Stormwater Management permits, and Tree Replacement Policy were discussed. Common violations, including illegal dumping of trash, yard waste, and snow, as well as unauthorized vegetation removal, were addressed.

 The session concluded with practical tips and a reminder to always check with the Town’s Conservation Division before starting any project near wetlands. As this was the first event of this kind, staff collected feedback from the attendees after the event.

 “There is a stigma about committees policing wetlands, but this training showed the town is willing to help” stated one attendee. Others cited the usefulness of learning about plant and soil indictors for wetland areas, and many suggested future trainings on the proper identification and disposal of invasive plants.

 To learn more about the Conservation Division and wetlands protection, please visit our website at www.dedham-ma.gov/conservation.

Caption: Environmental Specialist Leonel Lainez demonstrates the town’s GIS Viewer.

Caption: Conservation Agent Meredith LaBelle discusses wetland indicators.